"Argumentation and Persuasion": Reading Check

Question 1

What are considered the fraternal twins of rhetoric?

Answer 1

Argumentation and persuasion

Question 2

What is the difference between argumentation and persuasion?

Answer 2

An argument appeals strictly by reason and logic;
Persuasion appeals by both logic and emotion

Question 3

What determines what tactic (argumentation or persuasion) one should adopt?

Answer 3

The forum in which the argument takes place

Question 4

How is argumentation different from other modes of writing?

Answer 4

It is a term of rhetorical intent, not of form

Question 5

What is argumentation?

Answer 5

It refers to any essay or speech whose aim is to sway or persuade a reader or listener

Question 6

When do writers apply the techniques of argumentation and persuasion?

Answer 6

When they’re trying to bring someone around to their opinion or point of view;
When they’re required to advocate one side over another

Question 7

What elements are most likely to sway readers in an argumentative essay?

Answer 7

-Perception of the writer’s credentials to hold an opinion on the subject
-Quality of its reasoning
-Appeal to self-interests

Question 8

What are the basic requirements for any effective argument?

Answer 8

Logical reasoning and solid evidence

Question 9

To write a persuasive argument, what should you do? (1 and 2)

Answer 9

1. Begin your argument at the point of contention.
2. Draw your evidence from multiple sources. (If you’re unable to, find a topic you’re truly interested in.)

Question 10

To write a persuasive argument, what should you do? (3 and 4)

Answer 10

3. Pace your argument with some obvious movement.
4. Begin your argument with an assumption that is either grounded in evidence or defensible. (Don’t base your argument on personal belief.)

Question 11

What reader/listener attitudes should you consider when making an argument?

Answer 11

1. Ho hum! (Use a provocative introduction)
2. Why bring that up? (Use clear, forceful language)
3. For instance? (Supply evidence and facts)
4. So what? (Restate thesis; what you expect the reader to do)

Question 12

To write a persuasive essay, what should you do? (5 and 6)

Answer 12

5. Anticipate the opposition. (And counteract it.)
6. Supplement your reasoning and evidence with an emotional appeal.

Question 13

To write a persuasive essay, what should you do? (7)

Answer 13

7. Avoid common logical fallacies.

Question 14

What is a logical fallacy?

Answer 14

Occurs when one draws a conclusion that is false or deceptive

Question 15

What is “Ad hominem” (Latin: “to the man”)?

Answer 15

The writer mounts a personal attack on an individual rather than dealing with the argument under consideration

Question 16

What is “Ad populum” (Latin: “to the public”)?

Answer 16

The writer appeals to feelings, passions, or prejudices shared by large segments of the population

Question 17

What is false analogy?

Answer 17

The writer mistakenly compares two situations that have some characteristics in common, treating them as if they were alike in all respects

Question 18

What is begging the question?

Answer 18

An argument that “begs the question” is one that moves in circles rather than forward

Question 19

What is ignoring the question (also known as the “red herring”)?

Answer 19

Involves shifting the focus of discussion to points that have nothing to do with the basic argument

Question 20

What is either-or reasoning?

Answer 20

The writer sees an issue in black or white, with no shades of gray in between

Question 21

What is hasty generalization?

Answer 21

The writer uses evidence that is not sufficient or representative

Question 22

What is “non sequitur” (Latin: “it does not follow”)?

Answer 22

An argument based on a non sequitur has a faulty premise

Question 23

Why do writers use logical fallicies?

Answer 23

When they do not use solid evidence to support their arguments but instead rely on flimsy hearsay, illogical connections, or improperly tested assumptions

Question 24

What is the purpose of “Why Don’t We Complain?”

Answer 24

To argue against passivity in the face of outrageously poor service

Question 25

What is the audience of “Why Don’t We Complain?”

Answer 25

Educated readers

Question 26

What is the language of “Why Don’t We Complain?”

Answer 26

Standard English with a snooty touch

Question 27

What is the strategy used in “Why Don’t We Complain?”

Answer 27

A variety of examples embedded in a narration

Question 28

Who wrote “Why Don’t We Complain?”

Answer 28

William F. Buckley, Jr.

Question 29

What illustrations form the backdrop for Buckley’s argument? Summarize each in one sentence.

Answer 29

It was hot inside the train, which was crowded. The temperature was 85. He was at a movie theater and the picture was slightly off, but his wife doesn’t want him to complain.